Previous publications

April 2008

The Historic Research Strategy for greater London will build upon two previous publications:

The archaeology of Greater London: an assessment of archaeological evidence for human presence in the area now covered by Greater London

It is nearly 25 years since the last major survey of the archaeology of the London region was written. In that quarter-century some of the most extraordinary evidence of our past has come to light: a 9000 year-old hunting camp in Uxbridge, a 2-mile-long prehistoric band-and-ditch cursus monument at Stanwell, the spectacular Roman heart of the City, the Saxon trading emporium on the Strand, the largest medieval cemetery excavated in Europe at Spitalfields, and Shakespeare's Rose Theatre at Bankside.

This book, completed with the substantial support of English Heritage and the City of London Archaeological Trust, represents the latest and most comprehensive attempt to place these treasures in their context. It also draws together the knowledge of specialists and experts to provide a framework within which future archaeological discoveries and research may be considered.

The result is an accessible and fascinating insight into the rich diversity of human experience that has combined over the last half-million years into the metropolis of Greater London today. The archaeology of Greater London is presented in 10 period-based chapters, with 13 accompanying full-colour maps and an extensive bibliography and gazetteer of sites and finds.

A Research Framework For London Archaeology 2002

A research framework for London archaeology follows The archaeology of Greater London (MoLAS 2000) and is intended to be used in conjunction with it to realise the potential of the London Archaeological Archive, to manage the archaeological resource more effectively, and to generate more focused research.

Chronological periods are summarised with reference to current knowledge and research questions. Research priorities are addressed through five major themes: topography and landscape; development; economy; people and society; and continuity and change.

Finally, the Research framework advocates the development of a research culture and strategy which will allow us to get more out of London archaeology.

Please click below to download an edited version

Research Framework (text only version) (PDF. 720kb)